What you need to know about vaccinations

UPDATED 10:59 AM EST Mar 06, 2013

Why is it recommended that children get vaccinated? Vaccinations are used to protect children against diseases and viruses that could be potentially harmful to them.

What types of illnesses can vaccinations protect people against? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, some illnesses include measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, polio and Hepatitis A and B. A complete list of available vaccines can be found here: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm

How many doses are required? The number of doses varies depending on the vaccination, according to the CDC. Some vaccines, like for measles, mumps and rubella, one require one dose. But others, like polio and Hepatitis B, require three doses. A complete list of required doses can be found here: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/easy-to-read/child.html

Are there side effects? It is possible to suffer some side effects from vaccines. According to the CDC, some minor side effects may include a fever, rash, or soreness at the injection site.

In rare instances, serious side effects may occur. If you think your child is experiencing a severe side effect from the vaccine then you should seek medical attention. The CDC recommends writing down the type of reaction and when it occurred. Also be sure to tell your doctor what vaccines your child just received. A list of possible side effects can be found here: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/side-effects.htm

Keep record of your child’s vaccinations. It’s important to keep track what vaccinations your child has received, when he or she received it, and how many total doses they’ve received. This will help you determine when they are due for their next vaccination and how many doses they have remaining. This will also ensure your records are complete and accurate in case you switch providers.

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